Messi shows why he's world's best, claims Roura

The Argentine forward came off the bench to score one goal and assist another on Saturday - reinforcing his status as the planet's finest player according to the Blaugrana No.2

Jordi Roura has claimed Lionel Messi's cameo in Barcelona's 2-2 draw with Athletic Bilbao on Saturday served as further proof that the attacker is currently the best player in the world.

The Blaugrana - who could have potentially secured the Liga title with victory at San Mames - fell behind to a Markel Susaeta goal prior to the Argentine's introduction in the second half.

However, Messi netted the equaliser and set up Alexis Sanchez and the Barca assistant believes it is what people have come to expect from him.

"Leo is the best player in the world," Roura told reporters after the game.

"Leo is fine. He trained very well and really helped us through a sticky patch. Hopefully, he is on his way towards reaching full fitness and the peak of his powers again."

Roura then gave his assessment of the match and admitted he was disappointed to be returning to Catalunya with just a point, but was encouraged by the performances of his fringe players - including Alex Song and Thiago.

"It was a shame that we drew in the end. We couldn't find the third goal. It's a pity that we did not bag all three points," he added.

"We earned a draw at a very difficult ground. We don't get tired of coming back from behind as we again showed today.

"We came here with the intention of collecting all three points and getting closer to the league title. Alex Song was also fantastic, Thiago did very well and Alexis was very good."